Nelson to Scott: Help me lobby Republicans for flood insurance delay

With the Oct. 1 deadline bearing down on Florida homeowners who face hefty increases on their flood insurance, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson asked Gov. Rick Scott and Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater on Tuesday to help him lobby to win support for a delay in the next week.

Nelson included a copy of his proposed legislation and wrote, "but the current state of gridlock in Congress, caused by a small minority, has prevented us from getting much of anything passed."

Here is his letter:

United States SenateWashington, D.C. 20510

BILL NELSON

FLORIDA

September 24, 2013

The Honorable Rick Scott

Governor of Florida

The Capitol

400 S. Monroe Street

Tallahassee, Florida 32399

The Honorable Jeff Atwater

Chief Financial Officer

Florida Department of Financial Services

The Capitol

Tallahassee, FL 32399

SENT VIA EMAIL WITH HARD COPY TO FOLLOW

Dear Gov. Scott and CFO Atwater:

I want to thank you both for your recent letters sharing your concerns about the national flood insurance program.

You should know I have been working with others in Congress to try to delay these rate hikes that are set to begin on Oct. 1. In fact, we have legislation aimed specifically at delaying the rate hikes. But the current state of gridlock in Congress, caused by a small minority, has prevented us from getting much of anything passed.

I have attached a copy of legislation for your review. Out of concern for numerous Floridians that will be affected by these rate increases, I respectfully request your help with Republican members to get the votes to pass such a measure.